SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher was a disappointed figure after seeing the Shrimpers lose 3-1 at Gateshead.

The setback was Blues’ first in the National League since mid-September.

And Maher – whose side were roared on by 712 travelling supporters - did not hide his frustration at the final whistle.

“We’re obviously disappointed,” said Maher.

“It’s about our reaction now but we didn’t reach the levels we need to get to.

“In the first half we had balls going in the box but didn’t have enough attempts on goal.

“In the first half we were in the control but we have to take chances when we’re on top and we haven’t done that. “

Wes Fonguck and Gus Scott-Morriss both wasted good chances to score in the first half before Callum Powell did likewise at the start of the second.

And Maher felt the missed opportunities were key.

“There are moments in game,” said Maher.

“Powelly had a chance just before they scored and if that goes in it’s a completely different game.

“We don’t take our chance and then they get one from 30/35 yards and all of a sudden you’re chasing the game.

"It hurts when we don’t do the things we know we’re capable of and there were too many sloppy moments today which you don’t get away with at this level.

“We had to do better in the final third with the amount of play we had but we haven’t had end product.”

And Maher was sad the Shrimpers could not give their supporters something to cheer.

“I’m sorry for what’s happened in the game and that they haven’t gone away with something,” said Maher.

“The players were desperate to give them something as well because we all appreciate the support.

“When you look at what they’ve done in terms of raising money as well it’s unbelievable.

“We’re performing for them and we will respond to this.”

READ MORE

>Match report from Blues' defeat at Gateshead